1. Introduction

At Grapple Zone CIC, we are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all our

members, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This Safeguarding Policy

outlines our approach to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of individuals involved in our

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) club.

2. Policy Statement

Grapple Zone CIC is dedicated to promoting the well-being and safety of all individuals who

participate in our BJJ club activities. We believe that everyone has the right to engage in our

programs without fear of harm, abuse, or exploitation. This policy reflects our commitment to

protecting children, young people, and vulnerable adults from all forms of harm and outlines the

steps we take to create a safe environment.

3. Legal Framework

Our safeguarding practices align with relevant UK legislation, including but not limited to:

- Children Act 1989 and 2004

- Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

- Sexual Offences Act 2003

4. Roles and Responsibilities

4.1 Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

Courtney Anderson is appointed as the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) at Grapple

Zone CIC. Their responsibilities include:

- Being the main point of contact for all safeguarding concerns and queries.

- Conducting Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for staff and volunteers

working directly with children and vulnerable adults.

- Seeking proof of identity and address through appropriate documentation.

7. Responding to Concerns

If anyone involved in Grapple Zone CIC has a concern about the welfare or safety of a child,

young person, or vulnerable adult, they should immediately report it to the DSO. Concerns will

be handled in a confidential, sensitive, and non-judgmental manner, following the principles of

child protection and adult safeguarding.

8. Record Keeping

Accurate and secure record keeping is essential in safeguarding individuals. Grapple Zone CIC

will maintain confidential records of safeguarding concerns, incidents, and actions taken. These

records will be stored securely and in accordance with data protection legislation.

9. Training and Awareness

Grapple Zone CIC is committed to providing regular training and awareness programs for staff,

volunteers, and members to ensure their understanding of safeguarding practices. Training will

cover areas such as recognizing signs of abuse, responding to concerns, and maintaining

appropriate boundaries.

10. Review and Monitoring

This Safeguarding Policy will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure its

continued relevance and effectiveness. Grapple Zone CIC wil monitor its implementation and

seek feedback from staff, volunteers, and members to continually improve our safeguarding

practices.

11. Communication

Grapple Zone CIC will communicate this Safeguarding Policy to all staff, volunteers, and

members, making it readily available on our website and at our club premises. We will also

ensure that individuals have access to relevant contact details for reporting concerns..